Keep it Fun with Allergy-friendly Bento Box Lunches for Back To School

Back to school means back to routine and packing lunches, ensuring that kids are safe and prepared to learn and grow together with their classmates. For parents of kids with food allergies, it’s a lot to consider. Some days, it may seem easier to fall back on trusted standards. With simplicity in mind, we created several bento-style lunch options to help keep allergy-friendly lunches fun and inspiring while introducing cool flavor combinations on regional themes.

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the yogurt alternative, Vegenaise, nutritional yeast (if using), and salt and pepper.

Toss couscous, peas and carrots with the yogurt alternative mixture. Season to taste.

To serve, assemble a bed of greens and top with couscous salad.

Thai Tiger Bento

Thai dishes often include fresh, aromatic ingredients combined to create a complex flavor experience. You may be wondering, how is that fun for kids? Check out the fun colors and textures in our Thai Veggie Rolls, made with rice paper wrappers. Kids will love the look and feel of these grab-able, dip-able snacks! Not to mention the slightly sweet, nutty flavors. Serve them with our allergy-friendly Thai Sunbutter Sauce and a side of cucumber slices, sprinkled with black sesame seeds. For an extra treat, include a handful of sweet & spicy popcorn. We love Angie’s Boom Chicka Pop. So fun!

Gradually add the Coconutmilk and pulse. Add more to desired consistency.

Assemble the Wraps:

Prepare the rice wraps according to package directions, using warm water in a shallow dish to reconstitute.

Carefully remove the wrapper from the water and place it onto a smooth, damp surface.

Place a colorful mix of veggies onto the wrap, near the center. Starting with the sides, gently fold the wrap inward and roll, holding the veggies in place as you go.

Serve with a side of Thai Sunbutter Sauce for dipping

Tip: prep all of the ingredients for the rolls ahead of time and set up a station so you can work fast. Remember practice makes perfect!

All American Bear Bento

Now that your kids have been introduced to some allergy-friendly global cuisine, here’s a bento box packed with simply prepared American classics. Everything tastes better with ranch dressing, right? Well, except cookies.

For easy dipping, quarter a soy-free, gluten-free vegan patty and tuck it in next to a few grape tomatoes. Sweet potato chips and broccoli trees are natural sides to this homestyle burger, and you know it – all of the above will go head first into the tangy ranch recipe below.

Don’t forget dessert! To finish your bear box, bake up a batch of chocolate chip buttons using gluten-free cookie dough by Eat Pastry. Be warned, you’ll want to munch every last one! Save some for the kids, okay?